Historically, the Longleaf ecosystem was created and maintained by lightning-initiated fires, as well as by Native Americans and settlers who relied on fire to keep forests open for hunting, turpentine production, and cattle grazing.

Continuing today, the most effective and economical tool for restoring the Longleaf ecosystem is fire.

Managing with prescribed fire:

• eliminates fuel on the forest floor, reducing the risk of wildfire
• encourages natural regeneration of Longleaf and other plants that benefit wildlife
• controls ticks and chiggers
• releases nutrients and increases soil fertility
• and much more!

BARRIERS TO USING Rx FIRE ON PRIVATE LANDS

Even though fire is the most effective land management tool, most
landowners do not use Rx fire because of concerns such as:

• Potential liability
• Lack of training, experience, guidance, and funding
• Lack of a burn crew
• Limited equipment or tools
• Smoke management issues

HOW THE SPBA CAN HELP PRIVATE LANDOWNERS

• Perform site visits and evaluate parcels
• Assist landowners with burn plans and potential funding
• Create or recommend safe fire breaks and fire lines
• Provide information, training, equipment, and tools
• Ensure appropriate preparations for burns are in place
• Connect with a network of peers to assist with burns
• Supervise their “Certification Burn”
• Provide region-wide updates and opportunities to attendworkshops and burns
• Expand community support for the use Rx fire